Contradictions and Paradoxes in 1 Samuel 26:21

Check out Contradictions Catalog of 1 Samuel 26:21 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts 1 Samuel 26:21. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to the author of the book, Saul is saying sorry to David because he knows he did something wrong and doesn't want to hurt David anymore. He feels silly for making a big mistake and sees how kind David has been.

1 Samuel 26:21: Then said Saul, I have sinned: return, my son David: for I will no more do thee harm, because my soul was precious in thine eyes this day: behold, I have played the fool, and have erred exceedingly.

Contradiction with Proverbs 28:13

Contradicts the notion of openly admitting sin as it suggests not prospering by confessing but rather by concealing transgressions.

Proverbs 28:13: He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso confesseth and forsaketh [them] shall have mercy.

Contradiction with 1 John 1:8

Contrasts Saul's admission of fault with the idea that claiming to be without sin is self-deception.

1 John 1:8: If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.

Contradiction with Galatians 6:7

Contradicts Saul's expectation of forgiveness without consequence by asserting the principle of reaping what one sows.

Galatians 6:7: Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.

Contradiction with Jeremiah 17:9

Challenges the sincerity of Saul's repentance by highlighting the deceitfulness of the heart.

Jeremiah 17:9: The heart [is] deceitful above all [things], and desperately wicked: who can know it?

Contradiction with Matthew 7:21

Opposes the belief that mere professions of repentance, like Saul's, grant favor with God, emphasizing doing God's will.

Matthew 7:21: Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.

Paradox #1

Some people might see a contradiction between Saul's admission of wrongdoing in this verse and his previous continuous pursuit of David. Even though Saul returns to seeking David's life shortly after admitting his fault, this inconsistency can be seen as highlighting the complex nature of human behavior and repentance, rather than a direct contradiction in the narrative.

Paradox #2

One potential contradiction in 1 Samuel 26:21 could be related to the differing accounts of Saul's attitude toward David. In 1 Samuel 24, Saul similarly expresses remorse for pursuing David and even acknowledges David's righteousness, yet he continues to seek David's life after both incidents. This inconsistency raises questions about Saul's sincerity and the timeline of his actions versus his words.

Paradox #3

The contradiction in this context could be seen in the way Saul acknowledges his wrongdoing and harm towards David, while repeatedly attempting to kill him throughout the story. Despite showing remorse, Saul's actions do not consistently align with his words of repentance, creating a tension between expressed intentions and actual behavior.

Disclaimer: The content provided at PolarBible.com is for educational purposes only. Readers have the full right to agree or disagree with the interpretations and conclusions presented. We take no responsibility for any actions or decisions taken based on the information shared as Polar Verses.